Sorry, Black Boots—This Is the Shoe Trend It Girls Keep Wearing Instead
Our take

The quiet shift away from ubiquitous black boots towards a more nuanced footwear choice signals a fascinating evolution in the ‘It girl’ aesthetic. It’s a move that resonates deeply with the current mood – a desire for understated elegance over overt trends. The article rightly points to Emily Ratajkowski as a key influencer in this shift, and her ability to embody effortless chic is undeniably a driving force. We’ve long admired her discerning eye, and it’s evident in her choices, from her embrace of simple flats Emily Ratajkowski's Flat-Shoe Trend to her appreciation for classic denim Emily Ratajkowski's Dark-Wash Jeans Are On-Trend and Under $70. The rejection of the black boot, a long-standing staple, isn't about dismissing practicality; it’s about prioritizing a feeling, an atmosphere, a sense of considered style. It’s a subtle rebellion against the predictable.
This isn't merely a fleeting fashion whim; it reflects a broader cultural recalibration. We're seeing a move away from maximalism and towards a more intentional, curated approach to personal style. The relentless cycle of micro-trends feels increasingly exhausting, and individuals are seeking ways to express themselves with greater authenticity and longevity. The focus is shifting from what’s *new* to what feels genuinely *right*. This echoes a similar sentiment we observed with Kate Moss’s recent embrace of accessory-maxxing, a playful yet refined approach to personal expression Kate Moss Tests the Accessory-Maxxing Trend With Not One, But Two Hermès Bags. Both trends, in their own ways, highlight a desire for individuality within a framework of timeless elegance. The rejection of the black boot, in particular, feels like a conscious decision to prioritize nuance and personal taste over seasonal dictates.
The significance of this shift extends beyond footwear. It’s a microcosm of a larger conversation about luxury and aspiration. The “quiet luxury” aesthetic, characterized by understated elegance and impeccable quality, is gaining traction, and this footwear trend aligns perfectly with that sensibility. It's about investing in pieces that transcend fleeting trends, choosing items that feel inherently sophisticated and enduring. The black boot, while undeniably versatile, can often feel utilitarian or even bordering on a uniform – a practical choice rather than a statement of style. The alternative—whatever that may be—suggests a desire for something more refined, something that speaks to a deeper sense of personal style and self-assuredness. The move away from the expected isn’t about being deliberately contrarian; it’s about expressing a more nuanced and evolved understanding of style.
Ultimately, this trend invites us to consider what truly defines “It girl” status in 2024. Is it about chasing the latest viral sensation, or is it about cultivating a personal style that feels authentic and enduring? The subtle rejection of black boots suggests the latter. It’s a quiet declaration of independence from the noise of fast fashion and a commitment to a more considered, intentional approach to style. The question now becomes: what other staples will be quietly retired in favor of more thoughtful, understated alternatives, and how will this continue to reshape the landscape of personal style?
The key to dressing like an It girl is to go against the grain, just as Emily Ratajkowski often does. Ratajkowski is one of those effortless chic girls who we all want to emulate. For example, when everyone else is wearing black boots to gear up for fall, Emrata is donning a completely different shoe trend: snakeskin shoes.
Ratajkowski was just spotted arriving at an event in NYC dressed in a chic denim outfit featuring pointed-toe snakeskin shoes. She wore a chocolate brown leather jacket over a V-neck tank top in the same hue, and black jeans with a silver-buckle belt. The choice to slip on snakeskin shoes instead of black boots elevated her outfit much more. She looked stylish and put-together. And it’s no secret that snakeskin shoes have been popular since last fall and winter, so I predict they’ll soon be making a return among the fashion set.
Keep scrolling if you're inspired by Ratajkowski’s snakeskin-shoe styling choices, and shop similar items.
The Shoe Trend on Emily Ratajkowski

On Emily Ratajkowski: Abercrombie and Fitch Low Rise Ultra Loose Jeans in Washed Black ($68)
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